Sometimes the Poorest of Men are the Richest

Today I watched an excellent Canadian movie called "AMAL".  Set in India this modern day fable, follows an auto-rickshaw driver in New Delhi who is content with his small but vital role in life.  One day he chauffeurs an eccentric millionaire who, disguised as a vagabond, is searching the streets for the last morsel of humanity - and someone he can leave his fortune to - and Amal's life changes forever.  The movie has a twist, which I think will leave you shocked more by your own response, than the plot turn.

I could not help but come away from the movie reminded of Jesus' teaching on the Beatitudes/Blessings.  Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them saying: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.  Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.  Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.  Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.  Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.  Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.  Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

At least twice in the movie, mention is made of someone being different.  Although the difference was honesty, kindness and humility, it seemed to be looked down upon within a society focused on aquiring more and getting ahead, even at the disadvantage of others.  Amal was not crooked like all the other Rickshaw drivers, though it was not always easy to do the right thing he did it.  Sometimes the Poorest of Men are the Richest